“The current geopolitical climate is not at all conducive to promoting human rights in Myanmar and beyond,” he said. “The United Nations and the principles on which it was founded more than 80 years ago are under serious pressure.”
Mr. Andrews, who is mandated by the Council to act as an independent expert and is not a UN staff member, warned that Easing international pressure and reducing humanitarian funding could have devastating consequences for people. who already endure widespread violence and deprivation.
“The international community’s actions to weaken the military junta’s ability to sustain itself and its attacks on the people of Myanmar have shown promise,” he said. “However, alarmingly there are signs that governments’ resolve is waning.”
The human cost of the coup
Myanmar has been embroiled in conflict since the military seized power in February 2021, overthrowing the civilian government and arresting top leaders, including President Win Myint and State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup also triggered nationwide protests and subsequent armed resistance movements that control large swathes of the fractured country.
Violence against civilians has also escalated dramatically. There were nine airstrikes against civilian targets in 2021, compared to 1,140 last year..
More than 100,000 homes have been burned, while the use of landmines by junta forces has increased dramatically, leaving communities across the country living in constant fear.
Deepening humanitarian crisis
The conflict has fueled a spiral of humanitarian emergency.
According to the United Nations aid coordination office, OCHA, almost a third of Myanmar’s population now needs humanitarian assistance and More than 12 million people suffer from acute hunger..
More than 3.6 million people are displaced across the country as fighting spreads across several regions, including Sagaing, Magway, Chin, Bago and Kayin, where intense fighting and airstrikes continue to drive people from their homes.
Civilian casualties are also increasing.
The UN human rights office, OHCHR, reports that airstrikes attributed to Myanmar’s armed forces killed at least 982 civilians in 2025 – a 53 percent increase compared to the previous year – including 287 children.
In Rakhine state alone, more than 190 people were killed in airstrikes that also destroyed homes, medical facilities and camps for internally displaced people.
Call for stronger action
Despite worsening conditions, Andrews said international measures aimed at isolating military leaders have worked.
Sanctions targeting military-controlled companies and arms supply networks have disrupted the junta’s ability to acquire weapons, he noted, while the regime has struggled to gain international legitimacy.
The international community also faces a critical decision, he added.
“Will you expand measures that have proven effective and support the people of Myanmar who continue to demonstrate remarkable courage and tenacity?” Mr. Andrews asked.
“Or will he back down and abandon the people of Myanmar precisely when they need that support most?”